The Clarion Goldfield Dows middle school wrestling team was short a few athletes from what it had come accustomed to having over the past years. What was lacking in numbers was made up in enthusiasm and eagerness to learn the sport.
There were six seventh graders that joined the team this year. Dietrich Woodley weighing 80 pounds soaking wet was a great addition to the team, he always brought energy and enthusiasm to practice and competition. Rusbell Garcia with no prior wrestling experience always made it a priority to enjoy the sport; he is always wearing his smile and lifting others up. Clayton Loux made huge improvements from the beginning of the year; and always had time to make everyone laugh as the team jokester. Caleb Seaba brought tons of wrestling experience with him; he was great in helping out and teaching the other wrestlers. Caleb had a great year with lots of success, with a little more confidence he will be dangerous. Cole Rothman has great determination and desire to improve. Having never wrestled before he was at a little disadvantage, but was always looking for the next way to improve. Owen Kochorosky, the third athlete new to the sport of wrestling showed grit at times with a need for a little more determination in coming years.
The two eighth graders enjoyed their seniority this year. Lucas Parcell in his second year grew like a weed from last year jumping from 115 to 140. He made big improvements in his focus in the practice room, which will serve him well next year in high school. Mason Allen had a few injuries that kept him from wrestling most of the season. When he did wrestle he took advantage of the opportunity by being physical and asking lots of questions.
This season provided a great opportunity for all the middle school athletes to evaluate where their wrestling abilities were compared to neighboring schools. This group did a nice job of focusing when asked. Listening is still a work in progress. As always it was a fun season with a great sport that teaches life lessons of hard work and determination to the soon to be young men in the wrestling room.
